A speech by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall at the naming of Saga’s new cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery, Dover

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a huge pleasure to be here with you today, as Godmother of Saga’s new wonderful cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery. 

Saga, of course, works predominantly with the over-50s – an age group which, to me, looks increasingly youthful these days.  I recently came across a wonderful quotation by TS Eliot, and I wonder if it might  resonate with some of you here today:  "The years between fifty and seventy are the hardest.  You are always being asked to do things, and yet you are not decrepit enough to turn them down." 

I know that Saga has a proud history of charitable endeavours, particularly through the Saga Charitable Trust.  I was therefore delighted to learn that your first-ever national charity partner is The Silver Line, of which I am Patron.  You will perhaps indulge a proud Patron for taking a moment to praise the work of this wonderful organisation, which provides a 24-hour telephone service for older people who are feeling lonely or isolated.  Since its launch in 2013, it has received over 2 million calls – and the support of Saga will help ensure that its vital work can continue.  On behalf of The Silver Line, thank you very much.

And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, I name this ship Spirit of Discovery.  May God bless her and all who sail in her.